Synthesis and Formulations Group Research
New PBX formulations for insensitive munitions are currently being developed. The Synthesis and Formulations Group have the facilities to synthesis, mix, process, test and evaluate these new compositions. Areas of research and development include the manufacture of PBXs containing TATB, HMX, RDX with inert and energetic binders.
ENERGETIC POLYMERS
Research and development work is being conducted on the compatibility of energetic binders and energetic plasticizers for PBXs.
DISPOSAL
The synthesis and formulations group is involved in the development of new techniques for the recovery and disposal of energetic materials from polymer bonded explosives (PBXs). Areas of development include:
- Recovery of RDX from PBXs containing cross-linked HTPB
- The use of supercritical fluids in the recovery of RDX
- Recovery of TATB and HMX from PBXs containing energetic polymers
- Disposal of energetic materials by microbial degradation
Focused research into cross-linked polymeric ‘binder sheet’ synthesis using a variety of pre-polyols (both inert and energetic) and di- and multi-functional isocyanates:
- Cure rate determination (through FT-IR, and NIR/Rheometry)
- Effect of plasticizer content on various properties
- Understanding the formation of hard and soft block segments
- Mechanical Properties including Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), and Rheometry In conjunction with the Applied Optical Sensors Group
Research on formulations includes:
- Pressing density of uncured, partially cured and fully cured formulations.
- Design of pressing programmes for novel compositions
- Sample preparation for performance vulnerability and ageing studies
- Development of processing techniques for castable, paste and pressable compositions.
This is a brief overview of the Group’s capabilities. The facilities are currently being upgraded to enable a greater variety and scale of work to be undertaken.
Return to the Synthesis and Formulation Group
Professor Jacqueline Akhavan
T: +44 (0)1793 785324
E: j.akhavan@cranfield.ac.uk
